4-86
Trailer Brakes
If your trailer weighs more than 2,000 lbs. (900 kg)
loaded, then it needs its own brakes
--
and they must be
adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for
the trailer brakes so you’ll be able to install, adjust and
maintain them properly.
Your trailer brake system can tap into the vehicle’s
hydraulic brake system only if:
D The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi
(20 650 kPa) of pressure.
D The trailer’s brake system will use less than
0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from your vehicle’s
master cylinder. Otherwise, both braking systems
won’t work well. You could even lose your brakes.
If everything checks out this far, make the brake tap
at the port on the master cylinder that sends the fluid
to the rear brakes. But don’t use copper tubing for this.
If you do, it will bend and finally break off. Use steel
brake tubing.
Driving with a Trailer
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.
Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get
to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of
handling and braking with the added weight of the
trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are
driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as
responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform
(and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector,
lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has
electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and
then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure
the brakes are working. This lets you check your
electrical connection at the same time.
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the
load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes
are still working.
While towing a trailer or when exposed to long periods
of sunshine, the floor of the truck bed may become very
warm. Avoid putting items in the truck bed that might be
affected by high ambient temperatures.
Summary of Contents for 2002 Silverado 1500 Pickup
Page 1: ......
Page 6: ...v These are some examples of vehicle symbols you may find on your vehicle ...
Page 19: ...1 12 Take the simplest vehicle Suppose it s just a seat on wheels Put someone on it ...
Page 174: ...2 94 The Instrument Panel Your Information System ...
Page 354: ...5 28 Front Position 2WD 1500 Series Front Position All Other Models ...
Page 357: ...5 31 Front Position 2WD 1500 Series Front Position All Other Models ...
Page 404: ...6 39 Power Steering Fluid 8100 V8 Engine All Other Engines ...
Page 440: ...6 75 GM Vehicle Care Appearance Materials ...
Page 447: ...6 82 ...
Page 462: ...Scheduled Maintenance 7 7 ...
Page 463: ...Scheduled Maintenance 7 8 ...
Page 485: ...7 30 Maintenance Record DATE ODOMETER READING SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED ...